RSCC’s Express AM8 satellite. Photo: ISS-Reshetnev

[Via Satellite 12-07-2015] The Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSCC) has signed a new contract on its latest satellite, Express AM8, from European service provider Castor Networks. The company plans to use the new satellite capacity to expand its business in the maritime industry and support existing contracts with private mining and energy companies in Africa.

Under the terms of the contract, Castor Networks will use the capacity of two transponders on Express AM8, located at 14 degrees west, to provide communications services in Europe, Latin America and Africa. The company also installed a 9-meter antenna at its teleport in Burum, Netherlands.

Castor Networks plans to continue upgrading its ground-based facilities to support the operation of its teleport with the RSCC satellite fleet. In addition, the parties have agreed that RSCC will use the teleport in Burum to provide services through other RSCC satellites. RSCC operates five teleports as well as its own high-speed optical-fiber digital network.